Do golf clubs really matter? This is the most common question I hear from my students. I get it, buying golf clubs can be a high pressure situation especially in some sporting goods stores so it seems easier to buy a "starter kit." The truth is, golf clubs make a big difference in how you play, so it is important that you buy clubs that will fit your build and your ability. For this reason, I highly encourage beginner students to let me provide the clubs during the lessons and then I will guide them through the buying process. Now I know you are thinking it so please know that I DO NOT receive commission in the sale of golf clubs.

In a lot of cases, I find that my students are using clubs that are much too heavy for them. This is a problem because it creates a hitch and the golfer is unable to get back to the ball and hit it square with the club face. It is very difficult to develop a good swing with a heavy golf club.

Many times the shaft of the club is not correct causing it to have too much flex or it will be too stiff when making contact with the ball. Other times, the lie of the club is incorrect. If it is sitting up, the ball will go to the right and if it is down it will go left. This happens with most standard clubs which are made for golfers of average height. If you are taller or shorter, you will be frustrated when you play.

Every so often, I have students who own clubs that are older than my youngest junior students. Most times they can get away with the older clubs for a time, but I might encourage them to consider upgrading to lighter and more balanced clubs. Golf "technology" is changing all the time and it would be a shame not to take advantage of it when appropriate. There are clubs that are more forgiving to the students with lesser abilities making the game more fun for them and there are clubs that can improve the driving distance of the most experienced golfer making the game more rewarding for them.

All of these enhancements sound great but they also sound like they could cost a lot of money. In all honesty, all things being equal, like the same brand, the cost of purchasing custom clubs is not much more than buying off the shelf. I am available to talk specifics whenever you are ready.

Do you practice your putting at home? Do you like to play miniature golf? Are you looking for a way to practice your putting and spend time with your family? If you answered Yes to any one of these questions then you may want to consider attending the 11th P.B.C. Putting Classic at Okeeheelee Golf Course on Saturday, March 17, 2018. This Golf Professional Services, Inc. event is scheduled to begin at 10:30 am and conclude at 3:00 pm. Adults and Juniors are invited to stop by at any point during that time frame to traverse the unique putting greens that will be created specifically for this year's event. That's right! NO pre-registration paperwork, just show up, have a little fun and take home a trophy if you have the best score.

All proceeds from The P.B.C Putting Classic will benefit the Junior Golf Foundation of America so feel free to play as often as you like. Adults will be charged $10 for each attempt or 2 attempts for $15. Juniors will be charged $6 for each attempt or 2 for $10. If you wish to make this a family event (3+ members) you will only be charged $30 for 2 attempts each.

A FREE putting clinic will be available at 9:30 am if you would like to brush up on your skills. If you need more incentive, Brooks Koepka, the reigning U.S. Open Champwill be onsite at 11:00 am with his trophy. For more information you may call 561-964-4653 or email ashley@jgfa.org.

Okeeheelee Golf Course will be the host site for two demo days in March. Callaway and Cleveland Golf representatives will be available to show off their latest irons and woods. If you are planning to attend, I encourage you to think seriously about your strengths and weaknesses. This will allow you to be realistic about what advancement might benefit you in your game. It is easy to get caught up in the technology but if you cannot derive any benefit from the club then you have just wasted money.

Callaway Demo Day is March 9, 2018 at Okeeheelee Golf Course from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Cleveland Golf Demo Day is March 30, 2018 at Okeeheelee Golf Course from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

Don't forget to bring your old club(s) so you can trade them in for a credit towards new.